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Radiology · Abdominal imaging
Sample itemWhat CT feature supports the diagnosis of acute appendicitis?
Original practice item, not a recalled exam question. Nothing here is recorded.
The answer and the reasoning
C. Dilated blind-ending tubular structure with periappendiceal fat stranding
CT appendicitis findings include an enlarged appendix, wall enhancement, surrounding fat stranding, appendicolith, or local fluid collection.
Option by option
A. A simple renal cyst with enhancement
A simple cyst should not enhance internally.
B. Diffuse calcification of the pancreas
Pancreatic calcification suggests chronic pancreatic disease.
C. Dilated blind-ending tubular structure with periappendiceal fat stranding (correct)
Correct: enlarged inflamed appendix with fat stranding is characteristic.
D. A shrunken gallbladder with no surrounding change
Gallbladder appearance does not establish appendicitis.
Source note: Original NextPrep sample item — pending expert review. This item is original practice material awaiting independent expert review, so confirm important facts in a standard textbook.
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